Tongasoa eto Taolagnaro: Your Gateway to Paradise

Welcome to Taolagnaro aka Fort Dauphin – A Hidden Gem in Madagascar

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey to a destination that captivates your senses and leaves you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Nestled along the rugged southeastern coast of Madagascar lies Fort Dauphin, also known as Taolagnaro, a place where nature’s raw beauty and a burgeoning cityscape converge in harmony.

In the heart of this enchanting region, you’ll discover a unique blend of pristine beaches, remaining rainforests, and an emerging cityscape that has evolved rapidly in recent years. Fort Dauphin is now more accessible than ever, with daily flights from Antananarivo and convenient connections from Réunion Island every Friday and Sunday.

As this vibrant city continues to grow, so do the options for accommodations. New hotels and lodging facilities have sprung up, offering both luxury and comfort for travelers seeking a tranquil escape. Moreover, Fort Dauphin has embraced sustainability, with 40% of its power now sourced from solar energy, thanks to a groundbreaking project launched earlier this year, and we have some of the best Fibre Optic internet in Madagascar!

But Fort Dauphin isn’t just about modern amenities; it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can ride the waves while surfing, explore the diverse landscapes through hiking and kayaking, paddle along serene waterways, take leisurely walks, and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of nearby parks.

Join us as we explore the wonders of Fort Dauphin, where adventure meets serenity, and the spirit of Madagascar beckons you to experience the extraordinary. Welcome to Fort Dauphin, the jewel of Madagascar’s southeast coast!

Beach Bliss

Taolagnaro boasts five enchanting beaches within walking distance of the town center. Whether you’re a sunbather, a surfer, or a snorkeling enthusiast, these beaches have something for everyone:

  1. Libanona Beach: A tranquil spot for sunbathing and picnics.
  2. Mon Seigneur Plage: Perfect for experienced surfers, snorkeling, and discovering vibrant underwater ecosystems.
  3. Ampotatra Beach: A haven for surfers with consistent waves and breathtaking views.
  4. The Old Port: Explore a long crescent of sands, take in the serene surroundings, and when the wind and waves are right, catch a surf or swim! (Beware the shipwrecks at high tide).
  5. Ankoba Beach: A long-time favorite you can learn to surf at Ampotatra, enjoy a splash, take a long walk, eat at L’Arrivage or stay at the new beachfront luxury at Ankoba Beach Hotel.

Adventure Awaits

For those seeking more than just beachfront relaxation, Taolagnaro offers a plethora of adventurous activities:

  • Surfing: Catch some waves at Ankoba, take lessons from Ligue Anosy Surf Ampotatra Beach, or with Voky Be Tours, both local experts.
  • Snorkeling: Dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs.
  • Hiking: Embark on scenic hikes and explore the lush rainforests and rugged terrains.
  • Boat Trips: Discover hidden coves and remote islands on boat excursions.
  • Lemur Reserves: Visit the famous Berenty or Nampohana reserves to spot Madagascar’s unique lemurs.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, and even mountain biking.
  • ATV Adventures: Traverse the rugged terrain on thrilling ATV rides.
  • Camping: Experience the wild side of Taolagnaro with camping under the starry skies.

Top 10 Places to visit during your trip:

  1. Domaine de La Cascade: Explore a natural oasis with cascading waterfalls and serene pools, perfect for relaxation and hiking.
  2. Nampohana: Discover the vibrant local culture and traditions of the Malagasy people in this charming village and visit Lemur Park.
  3. Lokaro Beach: Relax on the pristine sandy shores of Lokaro Beach, where turquoise waters meet lush vegetation. Go for a day or get permission to camp.
  4. Evatraha: Immerse yourself in the stunning coastal beauty of Evatraha, a place where the sea meets dramatic cliffs. Stay with Nepenthes.
  5. Saidai: Experience the historical charm of Saidai, a botanical garden and lemur park.
  6. Fort Flacourt: Step back in time at Fort Flacourt, an old fort offering a glimpse into the area’s colonial history.
  7. Pic St. Louis: Hike to the summit of Pic St. Louis for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  8. Berenty: Explore the Berenty Reserve, a unique sanctuary where you can encounter lemurs and other endemic wildlife (plan to stay over night and book through the Croix du Sud).
  9. Baie de Italie: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Baie de Italie, a secluded bay with crystal-clear waters and scenic landscapes. Take an ATV or mountain bike adventure!
  10. Parc National Andohahela: Embark on a wildlife adventure in Parc National Andohahela, home to diverse ecosystems and rare species.

These diverse attractions offer a glimpse into the natural beauty, culture, and history that Fort Dauphin has to offer.

Where to Stay

Taolagnaro offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference:

Luxury & Comfort Lodging

  • Panorama Studio by Voky Be: New in 2023, this studio offers breathtaking views and is located on-site at Cafe Bar Colorado. Enjoy excellent Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • Ankoba Behttps://ankobabeach-hotel.mg/en/ach Hotel: A new beachfront hotel with 18 rooms, suites, and family rooms. It features a beautiful pool and beach access and is located next door to L’Arrivage and Restaurant Mirana (built-in 2022), ensuring you have everything you need for a luxurious stay.
  • Talinjoo: An enchanting retreat set in a park-like setting with a fantastic pool and spa. While it may be older and sometimes need maintenance, the experience is unforgettable (Wi-Fi may not be reliable due to limited fiber availability).
  • Kerala Residence: Enjoy beachfront living with small studios and rooms built in 2022.

Fully Furnished Apartments

  • Vohitsy Apartment by Voky Be: A 3-bedroom fully furnished apartment with complete kitchen facilities and plenty of natural light. Located on-site at Cafe Bar Colorado, it offers excellent Wi-Fi.

High-ceiling Studios

  • Dapuhine Studio by Voky Be: These studios offer high ceilings, abundant natural light, and amazing views. Located on-site at Cafe Bar Colorado, they provide excellent Wi-Fi connectivity.

Classic Comfort

These establishments offer reliable Wi-Fi and other services, along with on-site dining options:

  • Nepenthes Bungalows
  • Croix du Sud
  • Zoky Be, Robson Tree House, and Hitako by Voky Be
  • Kaleta Hotel (Vintana)

Affordable Hotels

These budget-friendly options provide basic amenities and may or may not have all services:

  • Port Hotel
  • Le Phare
  • Le Marina Hotel

Bare Essentials

For the most adventurous travelers who are comfortable with minimal amenities:

  • Le Tournsol
  • Chezy Anita

Dining Delights

Taolagnaro offers a diverse culinary scene, catering to various tastes and budgets. For a safe and enjoyable dining experience, consider the following:

Restaurants Safe for All Foreigners

  • L’Arrivage: Facebook here
  • Cafe Bar Colorado: Instagram here
  • Restaurant Mirana: TripAdvisor here
  • Pizza Express: Offering delivery services.

International Flavors

  • Fakary Snack: Enjoy Indian takeout after 16:00.
  • Mekong: Delight in Southeast Asian takeout, available during lunch hours.

Local Dining Adventures

While local restaurants offer local Malagasy Loaky and other fun foods, exercise caution with raw items like lettuce, carpaccio, and fruit juices. However, the daily specials, known as “Menu du Jour,” are usually safe:

  • The Rex
  • Sucre Sale
  • Chez Anita
  • Chez Vivy

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

  • Kaleta Hotel: Don’t miss the delectable bakery and ice cream options.

Useful Links

To plan your adventure in Taolagnaro, explore the following resources:

Discover the beauty of Taolagnaro, where adventure, relaxation, and culture intertwine to create unforgettable memories. Whether you seek thrilling escapades or tranquil moments by the sea, this vibrant town has it all. Explore, indulge, and experience the magic of Taolagnaro.